Live Bait - Baitfish

Live minnows, shiners, shad, and other small forage fish that perfectly replicate a predator's primary food source. From tiny fathead minnows for crappie to large golden shiners for trophy largemouth, live baitfish consistently produce the biggest fish.

Techniques

Free-lining
Float/bobber rig
Lip hooking for trolling
Behind dorsal hooking
Bottom rig
Cast net collection

Target species

Walleye
Crappie
Bass
Striped Bass
Catfish
Perch
Pike
Musky
Trout

Best conditions

Effective year-round. Cold water favors slow presentations under bobbers. Warm water opens up free-lined shiners for trophy bass and shad for stripers. Clear water makes live bait the most realistic option.

Skill level

Beginner

28 live bait - baitfish